Prior to Friday night’s game, the Yankees announced that Holliday has been reinstated from the 10-day disabled list. The 37-year-old has been sidelined since August 6 with a lower back strain.

The 2017 season has been a tale of two halves for Holliday. Over the first half of the season, he was a major contributor, hitting .262 with 15 homers and 47 RBIs. In 20 games played since the All-Star break, he hit just .136 with one homer and four RBIs.

Prior to landing on the disabled list, Holliday missed a couple of weeks due to a viral infection. Some believe that the virus’ effects led to Holliday’s struggles, but the Yankees do not believe that there is a correlation between the two.

With the rosters expanding for September call-ups, it will be interesting to see how manager Joe Girardi utilizes Holliday down the stretch. The veteran has only played the field in eight games this season, so it’s likely any at-bats he gets in September will come as a designated or pinch hitter.

Along with adding Holliday to the roster, the Yankees also announced a few other roster moves on Friday:

Signed Erik Kratz to a Major League contract, and added him to the 40-man roster

Transferred Luis Cessa to the 60-day disabled list due to a ribcage injury.

With Holliday’s return, the Yankees are hopeful that he can return to the player he was in the first half of the season. As the Yankees battle for the American League East Division crown, he could be a valuable weapon down the stretch.

As the rosters expand for the month of September, continue to follow the Bronx Pinstripes for all the latest news and rumors surrounding the New York Yankees.